The Triumph of Art

Celebrating 200 Years of the National Gallery

LS Events was privileged to serve as the lead event production and delivery agency for "The Triumph of Art," a spectacular day-long celebration commemorating the National Gallery's 200th anniversary at Trafalgar Square. 

This vibrant event, running from 11 AM to 4 PM, transformed one of London's most iconic landmarks into a dynamic canvas of art, performance, and community engagement.

The Procession

The festivities kicked off with a grand procession forming-up on King Charles Street, heading down Whitehall, and culminating in a triumphant arrival into Trafalgar Square. 

LS Events meticulously managed the intricate logistics of this parade, ensuring a seamless flow of dance groups, inflatables, strong people pulling carts, bespoke structures and community organisations, setting the tone for a truly memorable day!

Creative Collaboration

This vibrant celebration immersed attendees in a rich tapestry of interactive and artistic experiences. Beyond hands-on opportunities like t-shirt printing workshops, "round-earth making", and exploring history in the William Morris Gallery tent, the event featured unique performances in the central space against the iconic National Gallery background. 

Innovation shone through the bespoke C.A.T. structure on the North Terrace, acting as another pop-up performance venue, complemented by a free tea party offering complimentary refreshments and british treats. The eccentric program also included Heart n Soul and EEA's Quingo puppet and the lively "Do Your Own Thing" party. Practical comfort and artistic engagement were integrated, notably via portable seating from the Bartlett School of Architecture, Ed Hall’s bespoke banners being hung on Nelson’s column and unique activations in the Adam and Eve tent's geometric dome.

Advancing & Logistical Coordination

Our creative production and operational team took on the significant task of advancing and coordinating logistics for partners, including the National Gallery and the four regional galleries. This involved the meticulous planning and scheduling of the entire event, from the timing of performances to crafting specialist site plans. The on-the-ground execution was also a testament to our expertise in live event delivery. Our site management and zone coordinator teams were crucial to the seamless operation of the day - expertly managing the complex footprint with our trusted contractors.

Orchestrating the Procession

Our team spearheaded critical collaborations with specialised traffic management suppliers and leading stewarding companies, meticulously orchestrating precision road closures across the heart of central London. The procession featured over 20 different community groups, including Heart n Soul, an award-winning creative community and arts charity dedicated to showcasing the power and talents of people with learning disabilities and autistic people through art.

Beyond the logistical feat, we actively supported the creative development of the procession: ensuring elements were executed both safely and aesthetically; meticulously shaping the creative order of the procession – transforming a logistical necessity into a captivating spectacle that functioned with impressive fluidity and amplified the event's presence. We also engaged proactively with local agencies and stakeholders to ensure vital local bus and general access was maintained throughout the route.